Assessment of lung area in normal fetuses at 12-32 weeks

Relative Mediastinal Displacement Index (RMDI): A Prenatal MRI Indicator of Adverse Events in Fetuses With Isolated Left Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

BACKGROUND

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), has partly improved congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) outcomes, yet the overall morbidity and mortality remain high. Existing prenatal indicators for CDH fetuses are operator-dependent, time-consuming, or less accurate, a new simple and accurate indicator to indicate adverse events in CDH patients is needed.

PURPOSE

To propose and assess the association of a new MRI parameter, the relative mediastinal displacement index (RMDI), with adverse events including in-hospital deaths or the need for ECMO in fetuses with isolated left CDH (iLCDH).

STUDY TYPE

Retrospective analysis.

SUBJECTS

One hundred thirty-nine fetuses were included in the iLCDH group (24 with adverse events and 115 without) and 257 fetuses were included in the control group from two centers in Guangzhou.

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

3.0 T, T2WI-TRUFI; 1.5 T, T2WI-FIESTA.

ASSESSMENT

Three operators independently measured the→ DL ,→ DR , and DH on the axial images. The calculation formula of the RMDI was (→ DL  + → DR )/DH.

STATISTICAL TESTS

The independent sample t test, Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-square test, Chi-square test continuity correction, Fisher's test, linear regression analysis, logistic regression analysis, intraclass correlation coefficient, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and Delong test. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The RMDI did not change with gestational age in the iLCDH group (with [P = 0.189] and without [P = 0.567] adverse events) and the control group (P = 0.876). There were significant differences in RMDI between the iLCDH group (0.89 [0.65, 1.00]) and the control group (-0.23 [-0.34, -0.16]). In the iLCDH group, RMDI was the only indicator left for indicating adverse events, and the best cutoff value was 1.105. Moreover, there was a significant difference in diagnostic accuracy between the RMDI (AUC = 0.900) and MSA (AUC = 0.820), LHR (AUC = 0.753), o/e LHR (AUC = 0.709), and o/e TFLV (AUC = 0.728), respectively.

DATA CONCLUSION

The RMDI is expected to be a simple and accurate tool for indicating adverse events in fetuses with iLCDH.

EVIDENCE LEVEL

4 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 1.

Predicting neonatal mortality prior to discharge from hospital in prenatally diagnosed left congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the association of standardized prenatal imaging parameters and immediate neonatal variables with mortality prior to discharge in infants with isolated left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (LCDH), and to compare the performance of ultrasound- and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based severity grading for the prediction of neonatal mortality.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of infants with prenatally diagnosed isolated LCDH referred to a single tertiary center between 2008 and 2020. Fetuses with right or bilateral congenital diaphragmatic hernia, additional major structural anomaly or known genetic condition, as well as cases that underwent fetal intervention or declined postnatal intervention, were excluded. Ultrasound and MRI images were reviewed retrospectively. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed, incorporating prenatal and immediate neonatal factors to analyze the association with neonatal mortality prior to discharge, and a prediction calculator was generated. The performance of ultrasound and that of MRI for the prediction of neonatal mortality were compared.

RESULTS

Of 253 pregnancies with fetal CDH, 104 met the inclusion criteria, of whom 77 (74%) neonates survived to discharge. Seventy-five fetuses underwent both prenatal ultrasound and MRI. On multivariable analysis, observed/expected (o/e) lung-to-head ratio and o/e total fetal lung volume were associated independently with neonatal death (adjusted odds ratio, 0.89 (95% CI, 0.83-0.95) and 0.90 (95% CI, 0.84-0.97), respectively), whereas liver position was not. There was no significant difference in predictive performance between using ultrasound and MRI together (area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve (AUC), 0.85 (95% CI, 0.76-0.93)) compared with using ultrasound alone (AUC, 0.81 (95% CI, 0.72-0.90); P = 0.19). The addition of neonatal parameters (gestational age at birth and small-for-gestational age) did not improve model performance (AUC, 0.87 (95% CI, 0.80-0.95)) compared with the combined ultrasound and MRI model (P = 0.22). There was poor agreement between severity assessment on ultrasound and MRI (Cohen's κ, 0.19). Most discrepancies were seen among cases deemed to be non-severe on ultrasound and severe on MRI, and outcomes were more consistent with MRI-based prognostication.

CONCLUSIONS

In fetuses with prenatally diagnosed isolated LCDH, mortality prediction using standardized ultrasound and MRI measurements performed reasonably well. In cases classified as non-severe on ultrasound, MRI is recommended, as it may provide more accurate prognostication and assist in the determination of candidacy for fetal intervention. © 2024 The Author(s). Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Prenatal diagnosis and risk stratification of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare heterogenous disorder with varying degrees of severity. Infant survival rates in high-income countries are approaching 80% in isolated CDH; however, over 50% will have long-term morbidities. Advanced antenatal imaging, including ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, has made it possible to prognosticate severity of CDH and to stratify risk when counseling expectant parents. Risk stratification can also better prepare healthcare teams to enable optimal neonatal management, and provide options for fetal intervention or, where legally permitted, pregnancy termination. Factors that may affect the immediate and long-term prognosis for CDH include prenatal diagnosis, gestational age at detection and delivery, side of the defect, presence of additional structural or genetic abnormalities, defect size, estimation of fetal lung volume, the extent of visceral herniation, and the delivery center's experience in caring for neonates with CDH. Optimizing the outcome for families and infants begins with an early prenatal diagnosis followed by referral to a diverse and inclusive multidisciplinary center with CDH expertise. Prediction of disease severity is supported by accurate fetal imaging and comprehensive genetic testing, and allows the care team to provide realistic outcome expectations during the counseling of expectant parents of all racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia treated via fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion improves outcome in a middle-income country

OBJECTIVES

A recent European randomized trial - Tracheal Occlusion To Accelerate Lung Growth - demonstrated that fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) is associated with increased postnatal survival among infants with severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). However, this differs in middle-income countries such as Brazil, where abortion is illegal and neonatal intensive care is inadequate. This study evaluated the effects of FETO on improving the survival of infants with moderate-to-severe CDH in isolated and non-isolated cases.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study selected 49 fetuses with CDH, a normal karyotype, and a lung-to-head ratio (LHR) of <1 from a single national referral center for fetal surgery in São Paulo, Brazil, between January 2016 and November 2019. FETO was performed between 26 and 29 weeks of gestation. The primary outcomes were infant survival until discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit and survival until six months of age.

RESULTS

Forty-six women with singleton fetuses having severe CDH underwent prenatal intervention with FETO. Infant survival rates until discharge and at six months of age were both 38 %. The observed-to-expected LHR increased by 25 % after FETO in neonates who survived until discharge. Spontaneous intrauterine death occurred in four growth-restricted fetuses after FETO. Preterm birth in <37 weeks and preterm rupture of membranes in <34 weeks occurred in 56.5 % (26) and 26 % (12) cases, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

FETO may increase neonatal survival in fetuses with severe CDH, particularly in countries with limited neonatal intensive care.

Observed-to-expected lung-area-to-head-circumference ratio on ultrasound examination vs total fetal lung volume on magnetic resonance imaging in prediction of survival in fetuses with left-sided diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

To assess and compare the value of antenatally determined observed-to-expected (O/E) lung-area-to-head-circumference ratio (LHR) on ultrasound examination vs O/E total fetal lung volume (TFLV) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination to predict postnatal survival of fetuses with isolated, expectantly managed left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

This was a multicenter retrospective study including all consecutive fetuses with isolated CDH that were managed expectantly in Mannheim, Germany, and in five other European centers, that underwent at least one ultrasound examination for measurement of O/E-LHR and one MRI scan for measurement of O/E-TFLV during pregnancy. All MRI data were centralized, and lung volumes were measured by two experienced operators blinded to the pre- and postnatal data. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the effect on survival at hospital discharge of various perinatal variables, including the center of management. In left-sided CDH with intrathoracic herniation of the liver, receiver-operating-characteristics (ROC) curves were constructed separately for cases from Mannheim and the other five European centers and were used to compare O/E-TFLV and O/E-LHR in the prediction of postnatal survival.

RESULTS

From Mannheim, 309 patients were included with a median gestational age (GA) at ultrasound examination of 29.6 (range, 19.7-39.1) weeks and median GA at MRI examination of 31.1 (range, 18.0-39.9) weeks. From the other five European centers, 116 patients were included with a median GA at ultrasound examination of 26.7 (range, 20.6-37.6) weeks and median GA at MRI examination of 27.7 (range, 21.3-37.9) weeks. Regression analysis demonstrated that the survival rates at discharge were lower in left-sided CDH (odds ratio (OR), 0.349 (95% CI, 0.133-0.918), P = 0.033) and those with intrathoracic liver (OR, 0.297 (95% CI, 0.141-0.628), P = 0.001), and higher with increasing O/E-TFLV (OR, 1.123 (95% CI, 1.079-1.170), P < 0.001), advanced GA at birth (OR, 1.294 (95% CI, 1.055-1.588), P = 0.013) and when birth occurred in Mannheim (OR, 7.560 (95% CI, 3.368-16.967), P < 0.001). Given the difference in survival rate between Mannheim and the five other European centers, ROC curve comparisons between the two imaging modalities were presented separately. For cases of left-sided CDH with intrathoracic herniation of the liver, pairwise comparison showed no significant difference between the area under the ROC curves for the prediction of postnatal survival between O/E-TFLV and O/E-LHR in Mannheim (mean difference = 0.025, P = 0.610, standard error = 0.050), whereas there was a significant difference in the other European centers studied (mean difference = 0.056, P = 0.033, standard error = 0.056).

CONCLUSIONS

In fetuses with left-sided CDH and intrathoracic herniation of the liver, the predictive value for postnatal survival of O/E-TFLV on MRI examination and O/E-LHR on ultrasound examination was similar in one center (Mannheim), but O/E-TFLV had better predictive value compared to O/E-LHR in the five other European centers. Hence, in these five European centers, MRI should be included in the diagnostic process for left-sided CDH. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Prenatal diagnostic and intervention considerations in congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a life-threatening birth defect with significant morbidity and mortality. The prenatal management of a pregnancy with a fetus affected with CDH is complex and requires a multi-disciplinary team approach. An improved understanding of prenatal diagnosis and management is essential to developing strategies to optimize outcomes for these patients. In this review, we explore the current knowledge on diagnosis, severity stratification, prognostic prediction, and indications for fetal intervention in the fetus with CDH.

[Congenital diaphragmatic hernia : Imaging-from diagnosis to aftercare]

STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS

Fetal: Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); postnatal: conventional X‑ray diagnostics, computed tomography (CT) and MRI.

METHODICAL INNOVATIONS

MRI-based lung ventilation and perfusion measurement.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Lifelong follow-up care should be provided, in which radiology is part of the treatment team.

Diagnosis and management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a 2023 update from the Canadian Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Collaborative

OBJECTIVE

The Canadian Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) Collaborative sought to make its existing clinical practice guideline, published in 2018, into a 'living document'.

DESIGN AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Critical appraisal of CDH literature adhering to Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Evidence accumulated between 1 January 2017 and 30 August 2022 was analysed to inform changes to existing or the development of new CDH care recommendations. Strength of consensus was also determined using a modified Delphi process among national experts in the field.

RESULTS

Of the 3868 articles retrieved in our search that covered the 15 areas of CDH care, 459 underwent full-text review. Ultimately, 103 articles were used to inform 20 changes to existing recommendations, which included aspects related to prenatal diagnosis, echocardiographic evaluation, pulmonary hypertension management, surgical readiness criteria, the type of surgical repair and long-term health surveillance. Fifteen new CDH care recommendations were also created using this evidence, with most related to the management of pain and the provision of analgesia and neuromuscular blockade for patients with CDH.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2023 Canadian CDH Collaborative's clinical practice guideline update provides a management framework for infants and children with CDH based on the best available evidence and expert consensus.

Pulmonary vascular reactivity in growth restricted fetuses using computational modelling and machine learning analysis of fetal Doppler waveforms

The aim of this study was to investigate the pulmonary vasculature in baseline conditions and after maternal hyperoxygenation in growth restricted fetuses (FGR). A prospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies including 97 FGR and 111 normally grown fetuses was carried out. Ultrasound Doppler of the pulmonary vessels was obtained at 24-37 weeks of gestation and data were acquired before and after oxygen administration. After, Machine Learning (ML) and a computational model were used on the Doppler waveforms to classify individuals and estimate pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). Our results showed lower mean velocity time integral (VTI) in the main pulmonary and intrapulmonary arteries in baseline conditions in FGR individuals. Delta changes of the main pulmonary artery VTI and intrapulmonary artery pulsatility index before and after hyperoxygenation were significantly greater in FGR when compared with controls. Also, ML identified two clusters: A (including 66% controls and 34% FGR) with similar Doppler traces over time and B (including 33% controls and 67% FGR) with changes after hyperoxygenation. The computational model estimated the ratio of PVR before and after maternal hyperoxygenation which was closer to 1 in cluster A (cluster A 0.98 ± 0.33 vs cluster B 0.78 ± 0.28, p = 0.0156). Doppler ultrasound allows the detection of significant changes in pulmonary vasculature in most FGR at baseline, and distinct responses to hyperoxygenation. Future studies are warranted to assess its potential applicability in the clinical management of FGR.

Abnormal Shape and Size of the Cardiac Ventricles Are Associated with a Higher Risk of Neonatal Death in Fetuses with Isolated Left Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between fetal cardiac deformation analysis (CDA) and cardiac function with severe adverse perinatal outcomes in fetuses with isolated left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

CDA in each ventricle (contractility, size, and shape), evaluated by speckle tracking and novel FetalHQ software, and markers of cardiac function (E/A ratios, pulmonary and aortic peak systolic velocities, and sigmoid annular valve diameters), were evaluated in fetuses with isolated left CDH. Two evaluations were performed: at referral (CDA and function) and within 3 weeks of delivery (CDA). Severe adverse neonatal outcomes were considered neonatal death (ND) or survival with CDH-associated pulmonary hypertension (CDH-PH). Differences and associations between CDA, cardiac function, and severe adverse outcomes were estimated.

RESULTS

Fifty fetuses were included, and seventeen (34%) had severe adverse neonatal outcomes (11 ND and 6 survivors with CDH-PH). At first evaluation, the prevalence of a small left ventricle was 34% (17/50) with a higher prevalence among neonates presenting severe adverse outcomes (58.8 [10/17] vs. 21.2% [7/33]; p = 0.01; OR, 5.03 [1.4-19.1; p = 0.01]) and among those presenting with neonatal mortality (8/11 [72.7] vs. 9/39 [23.0%]; p = 0.03; OR, 8.9 [1.9-40.7; p = 0.005]). No differences in cardiac function or strain were noted between fetuses with or without severe adverse outcomes. Within 3 weeks of delivery, the prevalence of small left ventricle was higher (19/34; 55.8%) with a more globular shape (reduced transverse/longitudinal ratio). A globular right ventricle was significantly associated with ND or survival with CDH-PH (OR, 14.2 [1.5-138.3]; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Fetuses with isolated CDH at risk of perinatal death or survival with CDH-PH had a higher prevalence of a small left ventricle and abnormal shape of the right ventricle.

Clinical assessment of the fetal right Quantitative Lung Index

OBJECTIVES

We have previously described gestational-age-independent sonographic indices to assess fetal lung size in the right and left lungs: The Quantitative Lung Index for the right lung (QLI-R) and for the left lung (QLI-L), respectively. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical cutoff point of the QLI-R to predict pulmonary hypoplasia and neonatal death.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective assessment of the QLI-R in patients with left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH-L) and other fetal conditions at risk for fetal pulmonary hypoplasia. Cross-section and longitudinal assessment of the behavior of the QLI-R in untreated and treated patients. ROC curve analysis to determine the optimal cutoff point of the QLI-R in predicting neonatal death.

RESULTS

One hundred eighteen patients with CDH-L and other fetal conditions at risk for pulmonary hypoplasia had QLI-R measurements done. Seventeen patients were excluded for various reasons. Eleven patients with conditions other than CDH-L but at risk for pulmonary hypoplasia were used for intraclass coefficient measurements of the QLI-R. Ninety patients had CDH-L, of which 78 did not undergo antenatal intervention and in which the cutoff point for pulmonary hypoplasia and neonatal demise was assessed. Stent tracheal occlusion was performed in the remaining 12 patients with CDH-L, in which the behavior of the QLI after surgery was assessed. Analysis of the ICC showed an overall intra-rater reliability of 0.985 (Cronbach's Alpha-based). There was no correlation between gestational age and QLI-R (-0.73, Pearson correlation, p = .72). Twenty-six of the 78 patients (33%) with CDH-L managed expectantly had a neonatal demise. A QLI-R equal to or less than 0.45 was significantly predictive of neonatal demise (area under the curve 0.64, p = .046, sensitivity 77%). Nine of the 12 patients (75%) that underwent tracheal occlusion had neonatal survival. Of these, 10 had serial assessments of the QLI-R after surgery. An increase in the QLI-R of 0.11 was associated with a tendency for neonatal survival (p = .056).

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms that the QLI-R is a gestational-age-independent measurement of fetal lung size, with a high degree of reproducibility. In a population of expectantly managed CDH-L patients, a cutoff value of the QLI-R of 0.45 or lower is predictive of neonatal death from pulmonary hypoplasia. The QLI-R can be used to monitor fetal lung growth after tracheal occlusion, and an increase in the QLI-R is suggestive of neonatal survival. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings and to explore the use of the QLI in other populations at risk for pulmonary hypoplasia and consequent neonatal demise.

Update on Management and Outcomes of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) benefit from comprehensive multidisciplinary teams that have experience in caring for the unique and complex issues associated with CDH. Despite prenatal referral to specialized high-volume centers, advanced ventilation strategies and pulmonary hypertension management, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, mortality and morbidity remain high. These infants have unique and complex issues that begin in fetal and infant life, but persist through adulthood. Here we will review the literature and share our clinical care pathway for neonatal care and follow up. While many advances have occurred in the past few decades, our work is just beginning to continue to improve the mortality, but also importantly the morbidity of CDH.

Survival in very preterm infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and association with prenatal imaging markers: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To describe the outcomes of preterm born infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH; ≤32.0 weeks of gestation) and the associations between prenatal imaging markers and survival.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Multicentre study in large referral centres.

POPULATION

Infants with an isolated unilateral CDH, live born at 32.0 weeks or less of gestation, between January 2009 and January 2020.

METHODS

Neonatal outcomes were evaluated for infants that were expectantly managed during pregnancy and infants that underwent fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) therapy, separately. We evaluated the association between prenatal imaging markers and survival to discharge. Prenatal imaging markers included observed to expected lung-to-head ratio (o/e LHR), side of the defect, liver position, stomach position grade, and observed to expected total fetal lung volume (o/e TFLV).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Survival to discharge.

RESULTS

We included 53 infants born at 30+4 (interquartile range 29+1 -31+2 ) weeks. Survival in fetuses expectantly managed during pregnancy was 48% (13/27) in left-sided CDH and 33% (2/6) in right-sided CDH. Survival in fetuses that underwent FETO therapy was 50% (6/12) in left-sided CDH and 25% (2/8) in right-sided CDH. The o/e LHR at baseline was positively associated with survival in cases expectantly managed during pregnancy (odds ratio [OR] 1.20, 95% CI 1.07-1.42, p < 0.01), but not in cases that received FETO therapy (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.88-1.15, p = 0.87). Stomach position grade (p = 0.03) and o/e TFLV were associated with survival (p = 0.02); liver position was not (p = 0.13).

CONCLUSIONS

In infants with CDH born at or before 32 weeks of gestation, prenatal imaging markers of disease severity were associated with postnatal survival.

Lung Volume Head Ratio: A Potential Parameter for Prediction of Respiratory Distress in Newborn

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the role of fetal lung biometry profile including fetal lung volume head ratio (LVHR) in predicting the occurrence of respiratory distress (RD) in early preterm newborn.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective analytical cohort study was done to evaluate the clinical value of fetal sonographic measures, such as the total lung area (TLA), total lung volume (TLV), TLA head ratio (TLHR), LVHR, in pregnant women between 30 to 34 weeks' gestation who were expected to deliver within the next 72 hours. The cases with RD were compared with controls who had normal outcome.

RESULT

A total of 30 (27.4%) out of 110 patients, who underwent early preterm delivery, with RD rest 80 (72.6%) were controls. The TLA was 694.1 ± 373.1 mm2 in cases whereas 1,149.0 ± 506 0.7 mm2 in controls with significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.001). Similarly the lung volume (p < 0.001) and the LVHR were significantly less (p < 0.001) in cases compared with controls. The TLV was a better parameter (sensitivity, 73.7% and specificity, 86.4%) compared with TLA (sensitivity, 68.4% and specificity, 81.5%). Among the lung head ratios, LVHR had the best sensitivity of 95.5%, specificity: 80.3%, positive predictive value (PPV): 58.3%, and negative predictive value (NPV): 97.0% at the cut-off of 46.5.

CONCLUSION

RD was observed in nearly one-third of the preterm infants born between 30 and 34 weeks of gestation and could be predicted accurately in over 9 out of 10 cases using the novel parameter TLVR.

KEY POINTS

· Preterm newborn.. · Fetal lung volume.. · Respiratory distress..

aCGH Analysis Reveals Novel Mutations Associated with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Plus (CDH+)

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a major birth anomaly that often occurs with additional non-hernia-related malformations, and is then referred to as CDH+. While the impact of genetic alterations does not play a major role in isolated CDH, patients with CDH+ display mutations that are usually determined via array-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). We analyzed 43 patients with CDH+ between 2012 and 2021 to identify novel specific mutations via aCGH associated with CDH+ and its outcome. Deletions (n = 32) and duplications (n = 29) classified as either pathological or variants of unknown significance (VUS) could be detected. We determined a heterozygous deletion of approximately 3.75 Mb located at 8p23.1 involving several genes including GATA4, NEIL2, SOX7, and MSRA, which was consequently evaluated as pathological. Another heterozygous deletion within the region of 9p23 (9,972,017-10,034,230 kb) encompassing the Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Receptor Type Delta gene (PTPRD) was identified in 2 patients. This work expands the knowledge of genetic alterations associated with CDH+ and proposes two novel candidate genes discovered via aCGH.

Observed to expected lung area to head circumference ratio (O/E LHR) in fetuses with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT): assessment and evaluation as predictive factor for acute postnatal outcome-a single center study

Introduction

To assess the observed to expected lung area to head circumference ratio (O/E LHR) in fetuses with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) and to explore its value as a potential predictive factor for postnatal outcome.

Methods

A retrospective single-center study was conducted on pregnancies complicated by CAKUT between 2007 and 2018. The lung-to-head ratio (LHR) was calculated for each fetus by two independent observers. Correlations between O/E LHR and various perinatal outcome factors were assessed with Spearman's rank correlation. Furthermore, nominal logistic regression was performed to assess O/E LHR as predictive factor for respiratory distress in newborn.

Results

Of 64 pregnancies complicated by CAKUT, 23 were terminated. In the 41 cases of continuation of pregnancy, newborn presenting respiratory distress with need for respiratory support in the delivery room showed earlier gestational age at onset of amniotic fluid abnormalities and at birth. Although median O/E LHR and median single deepest pocket (SDP) of amniotic fluid were significantly smaller in newborn that did develop respiratory distress with need of respiratory support in the delivery room, neither O/E LHR nor SDP were accurate predictors for the development of respiratory distress.

Conclusions

Our data show that O/E LHR alone cannot serve as a predictive marker for fetal outcome in pregnancies complicated by CAKUT, though it might still be a helpful parameter together with detailed renal ultrasound evaluation, onset of amniotic fluid abnormality and SDP, particularly in its extreme values.

Assessment of normal pulmonary development using functional magnetic resonance imaging techniques

BACKGROUND

The mainstay of assessment of the fetal lungs in clinical practice is via evaluation of pulmonary size, primarily using 2D ultrasound and more recently with anatomical magnetic resonance imaging. The emergence of advanced magnetic resonance techniques such as T2* relaxometry in combination with the latest motion correction post-processing tools now facilitates assessment of the metabolic activity or perfusion of fetal pulmonary tissue in vivo.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to characterize normal pulmonary development using T2* relaxometry, accounting for fetal motion across gestation.

METHODS

Datasets from women with uncomplicated pregnancies that delivered at term, were analyzed. All subjects had undergone T2-weighted imaging and T2* relaxometry on a Phillips 3T magnetic resonance imaging system antenatally. T2* relaxometry of the fetal thorax was performed using a gradient echo single-shot echo planar imaging sequence. Following correction for fetal motion using slice-to-volume reconstruction, T2* maps were generated using in-house pipelines. Lungs were manually segmented and mean T2* values calculated for the right and left lungs individually, and for both lungs combined. Lung volumes were generated from the segmented images, and the right and left lungs, as well as both lungs combined were assessed.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven datasets were suitable for analysis. The mean gestation at scan was 29.9±4.3 weeks (range: 20.6-38.3) and mean gestation at delivery was 40±1.2 weeks (range: 37.1-42.4). Mean T2* values of the lungs increased over gestation for right and left lungs individually and for both lungs assessed together (P=.003; P=.04; P=.003, respectively). Right, left, and total lung volumes were also strongly correlated with increasing gestational age (P<.001 in all cases).

CONCLUSION

This large study assessed developing lungs using T2* imaging across a wide gestational age range. Mean T2* values increased with gestational age, which may reflect increasing perfusion and metabolic requirements and alterations in tissue composition as gestation advances. In the future, evaluation of findings in fetuses with conditions known to be associated with pulmonary morbidity may lead to enhanced prognostication antenatally, consequently improving counseling and perinatal care planning.

Characterization of Suboptimal Responses to Fetoscopic Endoluminal Tracheal Occlusion in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the study was to characterize the changes in fetal lung volume following fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) that are associated with infant survival and need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

Fetuses with CDH who underwent FETO at a single institution were included. CDH cases were reclassified by MRI metrics [observed-to-expected total lung volume (O/E TLV) and percent liver herniation]. The percent changes of MRI metrics after FETO were calculated. ROC-derived cutoffs of these changes were derived to predict infant survival to discharge. Regression analyses were done to determine the association between these cutoffs with infant survival and ECMO need, adjusted for site of CDH, gestational age at delivery, fetal sex, and CDH severity.

RESULTS

Thirty CDH cases were included. ROC analysis demonstrated that post-FETO increases in O/E TLV had an area under the curve of 0.74 (p = 0.035) for the prediction of survival to hospital discharge; a cutoff of less than 10% was selected. Fetuses with a <10% post-FETO increase in O/E TLV had lower survival to hospital discharge [44.8% vs. 91.7%; p = 0.018] and higher ECMO use [61.1% vs. 16.7%; p = 0.026] compared to those with an O/E TLV increase ≥10%. Similar results were observed when the analyses were restricted to left-sided CDH cases. A post-FETO <10% increase in O/E TLV was independently associated with lower survival at hospital discharge (aOR: 0.073, 95% CI: 0.008-0.689; p = 0.022) and at 12 months of age (aOR: 0.091, 95% CI: 0.01-0.825; p = 0.036) as well as with higher ECMO use (aOR: 7.88, 95% CI: 1.31-47.04; p = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

Fetuses with less than 10% increase in O/E TLV following the FETO procedure are at increased risk for requiring ECMO and for death in the postnatal period when adjusted for gestational age at delivery, CDH severity, and other confounders.

Mediastinal shift angle (MSA) measurement with MRI: a simple and effective tool for prenatal risk stratification in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the predictive value of mediastinal shift angle (MSA) in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on 87 fetuses with prenatally diagnosed left-sided CDH (LCDH) and 88 controls. MSA was measured on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Lung area to head circumference ratio (LHR), ratio of the observed/expected LHR (O/E LHR), total fetal lung volume (TFLV), and observed/expected total fetal lung volume (O/E TFLV) were also measured. Correlation of MSA with pulmonary hypertension (PH), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) use, duration of hospitalization and survival in neonates with CDH was analyzed. Performance of MSA in prediction of postnatal outcomes was compared with LHR, O/E LHR, TFLV, and O/E TFLV.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in MSA values not only between the CDH group and the control group but also in CDH patients with different survival outcomes. MSA was inversely correlated with O/E LHR, O/E TFLV, and TFLV. MSA, LHR, O/E LHR, TFLV, and O/E TFLV could all be used to predict survival of CDH patients. In addition, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that the test performance of MSA was similar to that of TFLV, O/E TFLV, and O/E LHR, but superior to that of LHR. MSA was also correlated with PH, need for ECMO support, and duration of hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

MRI measurement of MSA can provide various prognostic information for prenatally diagnosed LCDH, in addition to postnatal survival. The test performance of MSA is similar to TFLV, O/E TFLV, and O/E LHR.

KEY POINTS

• Mediastinal shift angle (MSA) can be measured quickly and reproducibly on MRI images. • MSA could provide more prognostic information other than postnatal survival for LCDH with good test performance. • MSA should be incorporated into prenatal risk stratification for LCDH to improve planning of postnatal management.

Prenatal predictors of mortality in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate prenatal predictors of mortality in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant observational studies that evaluated the ability of lung-to-head ratio (LHR), observed-to-expected LHR (o/e-LHR), observed-to-expected total fetal lung volume (o/e-TFLV), lung-to-thorax transverse area ratio (L/T ratio), intrathoracic herniation of the liver and the stomach, and side of diaphragmatic hernia, using a threshold for the prediction of mortality in fetuses with CDH. Study quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed.

RESULTS

A total of 50 articles were included in this meta-analysis. The QUADAS-2 tool identified a high risk of bias in more than one domain scored in all parameters. Among those parameters, the diagnostic odds ratio of mortality with o/e-LHR < 25%, o/e-TFLV < 25%, and L/T ratio < 0.08 were 11.98 [95% confidence interval (CI) 4.65-30.89], 11.14 (95% CI 5.19-23.89), and 10.28 (95% CI 3.38-31.31), respectively. The predictive values for mortality were similar between the presence of liver herniation and retrocardiac fetal stomach position.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review suggests that o/e-LHR, o/e-TFLV, and L/T ratio are equally good predictors of neonatal mortality in fetuses with isolated CDH.

Image-based prenatal predictors of postnatal survival, extracorporeal life support, and defect size in right congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between prenatal ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics in right congenital diaphragmatic hernia (RCDH) with postnatal outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

CDH Study Group data were reviewed for all RCDH infants (n = 156) born between 2015 and 2019. Prenatal US and MRI lung size measurements were correlated with survival, extracorporeal life support (ECLS), and defect size.

RESULT

Overall survival was 64.1%. ECLS was required in 40.4%. US and MRI-based prenatal assessment of pulmonary hypoplasia does not predict survival. Prenatal measurement of lung size using either US or MRI correlates with ECLS use. Only MRI-based measures of lung size are associated with defect size.

CONCLUSION

Image-based prenatal predictors of survival, ECLS, and defect size are of limited value in RCDH. Extrapolation of prenatal survival and morbidity indicators from left to right-sided CDH is not appropriate. There is an urgent need to develop RCDH prenatal prediction models.

Assessment of the fetal lungs in utero

Antenatal diagnosis of abnormal pulmonary development has improved significantly over recent years because of progress in imaging techniques. Two-dimensional ultrasound is the mainstay of investigation of pulmonary pathology during pregnancy, providing good prognostication in conditions such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia; however, it is less validated in other high-risk groups such as those with congenital pulmonary airway malformation or preterm premature rupture of membranes. Three-dimensional assessment of lung volume and size is now possible using ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging; however, the use of these techniques is still limited because of unpredictable fetal motion, and such tools have also been inadequately validated in high-risk populations other than those with congenital diaphragmatic hernia. The advent of advanced, functional magnetic resonance imaging techniques such as diffusion and T2* imaging, and the development of postprocessing pipelines that facilitate motion correction, have enabled not only more accurate evaluation of pulmonary size, but also assessment of tissue microstructure and perfusion. In the future, fetal magnetic resonance imaging may have an increasing role in the prognostication of pulmonary abnormalities and in monitoring current and future antenatal therapies to enhance lung development. This review aims to examine the current imaging methods available for assessment of antenatal lung development and to outline possible future directions.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare birth defect characterized by incomplete closure of the diaphragm and herniation of fetal abdominal organs into the chest that results in pulmonary hypoplasia, postnatal pulmonary hypertension owing to vascular remodelling and cardiac dysfunction. The high mortality and morbidity rates associated with CDH are directly related to the severity of cardiopulmonary pathophysiology. Although the aetiology remains unknown, CDH has a polygenic origin in approximately one-third of cases. CDH is typically diagnosed with antenatal ultrasonography, which also aids in risk stratification, alongside fetal MRI and echocardiography. At specialized centres, prenatal management includes fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion, which is a surgical intervention aimed at promoting lung growth in utero. Postnatal management focuses on cardiopulmonary stabilization and, in severe cases, can involve extracorporeal life support. Clinical practice guidelines continue to evolve owing to the rapidly changing landscape of therapeutic options, which include pulmonary hypertension management, ventilation strategies and surgical approaches. Survivors often have long-term, multisystem morbidities, including pulmonary dysfunction, gastroesophageal reflux, musculoskeletal deformities and neurodevelopmental impairment. Emerging research focuses on small RNA species as biomarkers of severity and regenerative medicine approaches to improve fetal lung development.

Fetal Thoracic Circumference and Lung Volume and Their Relation to Fetal Size and Pulmonary Artery Blood Flow

OBJECTIVE

Research on early origins of lung disease suggests the need for studying the relationships of thoracic and lung size with fetal size and pulmonary circulation. The primary aim of this study is therefore to explore the associations between fetal thoracic circumference, lung volume, and fetal size. We also aim to assess if lung volume and thoracic circumference are associated with fetal pulmonary artery blood flow velocity measures.

METHODS

Cross-sectional assessment of singleton pregnancies from the general population (n = 447) at 30 gestational weeks (GW) was performed using ultrasound measurement of fetal thoracic circumference, lung volume, head and abdominal circumference, and femur length. We obtained Doppler blood flow velocity measures from the proximal branches of the fetal pulmonary artery. Associations between variables were studied using Pearson's correlation and multiple linear regression analyses.

RESULTS

Both thoracic circumference and lung volume correlated with fetal size measures, ranging from r = 0.64 between thoracic circumference and abdominal circumference, to r = 0.28 between lung volume and femur length. Adjustment for gestational age, maternal nicotine use, pre-pregnancy body mass index, and fetal sex marginally influenced the associations with abdominal circumference. The correlations of thoracic circumference and lung volume with pulmonary artery blood flow velocity measures were weak (r ≤ 0.17).

CONCLUSION

We found moderate to low correlation between thoracic circumference, lung volume, and fetal size at 30 GW. The closest relationship was with the abdominal circumference. We found low correlations of thoracic circumference and lung volume with pulmonary artery blood flow velocity measures.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of the right congenital diaphragmatic hernia compared to the left: a 10-year single-center experience

PURPOSE

The features of right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernias (RCDHs) are quite different from those of left-sided CDHs (LCDHs). We have summarized the features of RCDHs experienced in our institution.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed the cases of patients with CDH registered at our institution between 2011 and 2020. Defects on each side were compared based on prenatal diagnosis, medical treatment, type of surgery, and outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients underwent surgery at our institution during the neonatal period, and 11 had RCDHs. RCDHs and LCDHs were significantly different in terms of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (36% vs. 6%, p = 0.002), patch repair (81% vs. 28%, p < 0.001), recurrence rate (36% vs. 11%, p = 0.022), and length of hospital stay (117 days vs. 51 days, p = 0.012). The severity of the fetal diagnosis did not reflect postnatal severity. All patients with RCDH survived to discharge, and there was no significant difference in survival rate between the right and left sides.

CONCLUSION

Neonates with RCDH required more intensive treatments; however, the survival rate was comparable between RCDH and LCDH. RCDH was significantly different from LCDH and an optimal treatment strategy for RCDHs should be established.

Decreased neonatal morbidity in 'stomach-down' left congenital diaphragmatic hernia: implications of prenatal ultrasound diagnosis for counseling and postnatal management

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the influence of stomach position on postnatal outcome in cases of left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) without liver herniation, diagnosed and characterized on prenatal ultrasound (US), by comparing those with ('stomach-up' CDH) to those without ('stomach-down' CDH) intrathoracic stomach herniation.

METHODS

Infants with left CDH who underwent prenatal US and postnatal repair at our institution between January 2008 and March 2017 were eligible for inclusion in this retrospective study. Detailed prenatal US examinations, fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies, operative reports and medical records of infants enrolled in the pulmonary hypoplasia program at our institution were reviewed. Cases with liver herniation and those with an additional anomaly were excluded. Cases in which bowel loops were identified within the fetal chest on US while the stomach was intra-abdominal were categorized as having stomach-down CDH. Cases in which bowel loops and the stomach were visualized within the fetal chest on US were categorized as having stomach-up CDH. Prenatal imaging findings and postnatal outcomes were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

In total, 152 patients with left CDH were initially eligible for inclusion. Seventy-eight patients had surgically confirmed liver herniation and were excluded. Of the 74 included CDH cases without liver herniation, 28 (37.8%) had stomach-down CDH and 46 (62.2%) had stomach-up CDH. Of the 28 stomach-down CDH cases, 10 (35.7%) were referred for a suspected lung lesion. Sixty-eight (91.9%) cases had postnatal outcome data available for analysis. There was no significant difference in median observed-to-expected (o/e) lung-area-to-head-circumference ratio (LHR) between cases with stomach-down CDH and those with stomach-up CDH (41.5% vs 38.4%; P = 0.41). Furthermore, there was no difference in median MRI o/e total lung volume (TLV) between the two groups (49.5% vs 44.0%; P = 0.22). Compared with stomach-up CDH patients, stomach-down CDH patients demonstrated lower median duration of intubation (18 days vs 9.5 days; P < 0.01), median duration of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (495 h vs 223.5 h; P < 0.05), rate of supplemental oxygen requirement at 30 days of age (20/42 (47.6%) vs 3/26 (11.5%); P < 0.01) and rate of pulmonary hypertension at initial postnatal echocardiography (28/42 (66.7%) vs 9/26 (34.6%); P = 0.01). No neonatal death occurred in stomach-down CDH patients and one neonatal death was seen in a patient with intrathoracic stomach herniation.

CONCLUSIONS

In infants with left CDH without liver herniation, despite similar o/e-LHR and o/e-TLV, those with stomach-down CDH have decreased neonatal morbidity compared to those with stomach herniation. Progressive or variable physiological distension of the stomach over the course of gestation may explain these findings. Stomach-down left CDH is mistaken for a lung mass in a substantial proportion of cases. Accurate prenatal US characterization of CDH is crucial for appropriate prenatal counseling and patient management. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Antenatal management and outcomes of pregnancies with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study is to evaluate the obstetric outcomes of pregnancies with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

Fifty one pregnancies prenatally diagnosed with CDH at our institution between January 1, 2002 and August 31, 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. The pregnancies were divided into two groups according to neonatal survival. Demographic features, clinical characteristics and prognostic factors were compared between the neonatal survival (n = 16) and non-survival (n = 28) groups. Cut-off values of fetal lung area to head circumference ratio (LHR), observed/expected LHR (o/e LHR) and observed/expected total fetal lung volume (o/e TFLV) for neonatal survival were calculated.

RESULTS

Thirty six (70.6%) and fifteen (29.4%) fetuses had left and right sided CDH respectively. Seven patients chose termination of their pregnancies (13.7%). Statistically significant differences were found between survival and non-survival groups in terms of parity, median gestational week at diagnosis, polyhydroamniosis rate, CDH type, stomach position, liver position, median LHR, o/e LHR, o/e TFLV, median 5th minute Apgar score and neonatal operation rate values (p values were 0.03,<0.001, 0.02, 0.006,<0.001, 0.006,<0.001,<0.001,<0.001, 0.04 and <0.001 respectively). According to ROC curve analysis, 1.05 (82% sensitivity, 74% specificity) for LHR, 22.5 (78.6% sensitivity, 73.9% specifity) for o/e LHR and 23.5 (85.7% sensitivity,74.2% specificity) for o/e TFLV were determined to be cut-offs for neonatal survival, respectively, with highest sensitivity and specificity.

CONCLUSION

Earlier gestational week at diagnosis, right sided CDH, presence of liver herniation, supradiaphragmatic stomach position, lower LHR, o/e LHR and o/e TFLV were associated with decreased rates of neonatal survival.

Randomized Trial of Fetal Surgery for Severe Left Diaphragmatic Hernia

BACKGROUND

Observational studies have shown that fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) has been associated with increased survival among infants with severe pulmonary hypoplasia due to isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia on the left side, but data from randomized trials are lacking.

METHODS

In this open-label trial conducted at centers with experience in FETO and other types of prenatal surgery, we randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, women carrying singleton fetuses with severe isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia on the left side to FETO at 27 to 29 weeks of gestation or expectant care. Both treatments were followed by standardized postnatal care. The primary outcome was infant survival to discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit. We used a group-sequential design with five prespecified interim analyses for superiority, with a maximum sample size of 116 women.

RESULTS

The trial was stopped early for efficacy after the third interim analysis. In an intention-to-treat analysis that included 80 women, 40% of infants (16 of 40) in the FETO group survived to discharge, as compared with 15% (6 of 40) in the expectant care group (relative risk, 2.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.22 to 6.11; two-sided P = 0.009). Survival to 6 months of age was identical to the survival to discharge (relative risk, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.22 to 6.11). The incidence of preterm, prelabor rupture of membranes was higher among women in the FETO group than among those in the expectant care group (47% vs. 11%; relative risk, 4.51; 95% CI, 1.83 to 11.9), as was the incidence of preterm birth (75% vs. 29%; relative risk, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.59 to 4.52). One neonatal death occurred after emergency delivery for placental laceration from fetoscopic balloon removal, and one neonatal death occurred because of failed balloon removal. In an analysis that included 11 additional participants with data that were available after the trial was stopped, survival to discharge was 36% among infants in the FETO group and 14% among those in the expectant care group (relative risk, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.21 to 6.09).

CONCLUSIONS

In fetuses with isolated severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia on the left side, FETO performed at 27 to 29 weeks of gestation resulted in a significant benefit over expectant care with respect to survival to discharge, and this benefit was sustained to 6 months of age. FETO increased the risks of preterm, prelabor rupture of membranes and preterm birth. (Funded by the European Commission and others; TOTAL ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01240057.).

Fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion and pulmonary hypertension in moderate congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

To study the role of fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) on resolution of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in fetuses with isolated moderate left-sided diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

This retrospective study included fetuses with CDH evaluated between February 2004 and July 2017. Using the tracheal occlusion to accelerate lung growth (TOTAL) trial definition, we classified fetuses into moderate left CDH if O/E-LHR (observed/expected-lung head ratio) was 25-34.9% regardless of liver position or O/E-LHR of 35-44.9% if liver was in the chest. Postnatal echocardiograms were used to diagnose PH. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the relationship of FETO with study outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 184 cases with no other major anomalies, 30 (16%) met criteria. There were nine FETO and 21 non-FETO cases. By hospital discharge, a higher proportion of infants in the FETO group had resolution of PH (87.5 (7/8) vs. 40% (8/20); p=.013). FETO was associated with adjusted odds ratio of 17.3 (95% CI: 1.75-171; p=.015) to resolve PH by hospital discharge. No significant differences were noted in need for ECMO or survival to discharge between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Infants with moderate left-sided CDH according to O/E-LHR, FETO is associated with resolution of PH by the time of hospital discharge.

Optimal gestational age at delivery in isolated left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the morbidity and mortality of neonates with left-sided isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) according to gestational age at delivery.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of fetuses diagnosed prenatally with isolated left-sided CDH that were delivered in the University Hospitals of Antoine Béclère-Bicêtre and Leuven between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2018. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate cumulative survival at 28 days after birth according to gestational age at delivery. The association between gestational age at delivery, as a continuous variable, and survival at 28 days was modeled using a fractional polynomial. Adjustment for position of the liver, management center and mode of delivery was performed. The association was also evaluated according to the severity of CDH, as defined by the observed-to-expected lung-to-head ratio (o/e-LHR), which was classified as severe (o/e-LHR < 25%), moderate (o/e-LHR between 25% and 45%) or mild (o/e-LHR > 45%).

RESULTS

We included 213 fetuses with isolated left-sided CDH, with a median gestational age at delivery of 38 + 2 weeks (interquartile range, 37 + 0 to 39 + 1 weeks). The survival rates at 28 days and at 6 months were 66.7% (142/213) and 64.3% (137/213), respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a higher survival rate at 28 days for babies delivered between 37 + 0 and 38 + 6 weeks than for those delivered at or after 39 + 0 weeks (log-rank test, P < 0.001). In the subgroup of moderate CDH, the 28-day survival rate was significantly higher in newborns delivered between 37 + 0 and 38 + 6 weeks than in those delivered at or after 39 + 0 weeks (81.5% vs 61.5%; P = 0.03), and this was also the case for survival rate at 6 months. In the subgroup with moderate CDH, 28-day survival significantly increased with advancing gestational age at birth up to about 38-39 weeks (P = 0.005), and significantly decreased from 39 weeks onwards.

CONCLUSION

Delivery between 37 + 0 and 38 + 6 weeks' gestation is associated with a higher survival rate at 28 days in neonates with isolated left-sided CDH and moderate lung hypoplasia, independently of intrathoracic liver, management center and mode of delivery. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

The quantitative lung index: the left lung

OBJECTIVE

We have previously described a gestational age-independent sonographic parameter to assess fetal lung growth in the right lung (right quantitative lung index, or QLI-R). The purpose of this study was to develop a similar sonographic parameter to assess the growth of the left lung in the fetus, independent of gestational age, or QLI-L.

STUDY DESIGN

A new index, the QLI-L was derived using published formulas for the head circumference (HC) and the area of the base of the left lung (LA), with the corresponding percentiles.

RESULTS

Left lung growth can be expressed using the following formula: QLI-L=LAL(HC12)2. The 50th percentile of the QLI-L remained approximately constant at 1.0 for the GA between 16-32 weeks. A small left lung (<1st percentile) was defined as a QLI-L < 0.5.

CONCLUSIONS

Fetal left lung growth can be adequately described independent of gestational age using the QLI-L. Further experience is needed to assess the clinical accuracy of the QLI-L in characterizing fetal left lung growth.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a potentially severe anomaly that should be referred to a fetal care center with expertise in multidisciplinary evaluation and management. The pediatric radiologist plays an important role in the evaluation of CDH, both in terms of anatomical description of the anomaly and in providing detailed prognostic information for use in caring for the fetus and pregnant mother as well as planning for delivery and postnatal care. This article reviews the types of hernias, including distinguishing features and imaging clues. The most common methods of predicting severity are covered, and current fetal and postnatal therapies are explained. The author of this paper provides a handy reference for pediatric radiologists presented with a case of CDH as part of their daily practice.

Lung growth index and lung growth ratio - new ultrasound parameters for predicting neonatal survival in fetuses with isolated left sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia?

Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of several ultrasound parameters used to predict neonatal survival in fetuses with isolated left-sided severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia. This study is to compare different measurement methods. Also, two new ultrasound parameters have been described: the lung growth ratio (LGR) and the lung growth index (LGI).Methods: This was a retrospective study in pregnancies with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) treated by fetoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO). Pictures revealing four-chamber view of the fetal heart were reviewed and the right lung area was remeasured with several techniques: anterior-posterior, longest diameter, and tracing method. Based on the measurements, different parameters were obtained: lung-to-head ratio (LHR) (anterior-posterior), LHR (longest diameter), LHR (tracing method), o/e LHR (longest diameter), quantitative lung index (QLI) (longest diameter), and QLI (tracing method). All measurements were taken at the time of balloon insertion and at the time of balloon removal. In order to describe and compare fetal lung size indices in terms of their value as predictors of neonatal survival, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was applied.Results: Lung-to-head ratio calculated at the time of balloon occlusion measured with the tracing method reached the most significant statistical difference (p < .01) and the best combination of sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Neither of the two new parameters (LGR and LGI) was better compared to previously described indices. Among all analyzed parameters, LHR measured with the tracing method at the time of balloon removal was the best predictor of neonatal survival.

Update on Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare developmental defect of the diaphragm, characterized by herniation of abdominal contents into the chest that results in varying degrees of pulmonary hypoplasia and pulmonary hypertension (PH). Significant advances in the prenatal diagnosis and identification of prognostic factors have resulted in the continued refinement of the approach to fetal therapies for CDH. Postnatally, protocolized approaches to lung-protective ventilation, nutrition, prevention of infection, and early aggressive management of PH have led to improved outcomes in infants with CDH. Advances in our understanding of the associated left ventricular (LV) hypoplasia and myocardial dysfunction in infants with severe CDH have allowed for the optimization of hemodynamics and management of PH. This article provides a comprehensive review of CDH for the anesthesiologist, focusing on the complex pathophysiology, advances in prenatal diagnosis, fetal interventions, and optimal postnatal management of CDH.

Prenatal assessment of congenital diaphragmatic hernia at north american fetal therapy network centers: A continued plea for standardization

INTRODUCTION

Prenatal work-up for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is important for risk stratification, standardization, counseling, and optimal therapeutic choice. To determine current practice patterns regarding prenatal CDH work-up, including prenatal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) use, and to identify areas for standardization of such evaluation between fetal centers.

METHODS

A survey regarding prenatal CDH work-up was sent to each member center of the North American Fetal Therapy Network (NAFTNet) (n = 36).

RESULTS

All responded. Sonographic measurement of lung-to-head ratio (LHR) was determined by all, 89% (32/36) of which routinely calculate observed-to-expected LHR. The method for measuring LHR varied: 58% (21/36) used a "trace" method, 25% (9/36) used "longest axis," and 17% (6/36) used an "antero-posterior" method. Fetal MRI was routinely used in 78% (28/36) of centers, but there was significant variability in fetal lung volume measurement. Whereas all generated a total fetal lung volume, the planes, methodology and references values varied significantly. All evaluated liver position, 71% (20/28) evaluated stomach position and 54% (15/28) quantified the degree of liver herniation. More consistency in workup was seen between centers offering fetal intervention.

CONCLUSION

Prenatal CDH work-up and management differs considerably among North American fetal diagnostic centers, highlighting a need for its standardization.

Fetal magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of congenital diaphragmatic anomalies

Background

Congenital abnormalities of the diaphragm cause impairment of lung development and are an important cause of post-natal morbidity and mortality. Congenital diaphragmatic eventration (CDE), a less sinister diaphragmatic anomaly compared to the more common congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), often tends to mimic CDH on prenatal imaging. This study evaluates the role of fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in differentiating these two entities.

Results

This was a retrospective study which included fetal MRI studies done in patients with ultrasound diagnosis of fetal diaphragmatic anomaly. MRI exam was performed with a 1.5 T superconducting system with eight-element torso array coil. The images were studied by two radiologists experienced in fetal imaging in consensus. Diagnosis of CDE was made if the dome of the diaphragm was visualized as a thin hypointense line separating the lung from abdominal structures on coronal and sagittal MRI sequences. If this thin hypointense line was not visualized, a diagnosis of CDH was made. The findings were then correlated with autopsy/intra-operative findings/post-natal imaging follow-up. A total of 12 patients were included in the study. In these 12 patients, 13 diaphragmatic abnormalities were diagnosed on MRI (1 fetus had bilateral diaphragmatic anomaly). Of the 13 diaphragmatic anomalies detected, 7 (54%) were CDH and 6 (46%) were CDE. The type of diaphragmatic anomaly was correctly identified on MRI in all except one fetus in which CDE was misdiagnosed as CDH. The Fisher exact test statistic value was 0.0047. The result was significant at p < 0.01.

Conclusion

Fetal MRI is a useful tool for assessing congenital diaphragmatic anomalies. Visualization of the diaphragm on coronal and sagittal images helps in diagnosis of complete CDE and differentiating it from the more sinister CDH.

Discordant prenatal ultrasound and fetal MRI in CDH: wherein lies the truth?

PURPOSE

Prenatal risk assessment of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) relies on prenatal ultrasound (U/S) and fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). When the modalities differ in prognosis, it is unclear which is more reliable.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review identified cases of prenatally diagnosed CDH from 4/2010-6/2018 meeting inclusion criteria. Demographic, radiologic, and postnatal outcomes data were collected. Ultrasound- versus MRI-based prognosis (mild, moderate, and severe) was compared with clinical outcomes. Kappa measures compared congruency in disease severity scaling between imaging modalities, while logistic regression and receiver operating characteristics curves compared the ability of each modality to predict outcomes.

RESULTS

Forty-two patients met criteria. Both U/S- and MRI-based prognosis categories differentiated for survival. MRI categories differentiated for ECMO use, surgical repair, and defect type. O/e TFLV better discriminated for survivors and defect type than o/e LHR. Seventeen (40.5%) had discordant prenatal prognostic categories. In 13/17 (76.5%), o/e TFLV predicted higher severity when compared to o/e LHR, but sample size was insufficient to compare accuracy in cases of discordance.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical outcomes suggest fetal MRI may more accurately predict severe pulmonary hypoplasia compared to prenatal ultrasound. Our analysis suggests fetal MRI is a valuable adjunct in the prenatal evaluation of CDH.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective Review.

Prenatal regenerative fetoscopic interventions for congenital anomalies

Fetal intervention has progressed in the past two decades from experimental proof-of-concept to practice-adopted, life saving interventions in human fetuses with congenital anomalies. This progress is informed by advances in innovative research, prenatal diagnosis, and fetal surgical techniques. Invasive open hysterotomy, associated with notable maternal-fetal risks, is steadily replaced by less invasive fetoscopic alternatives. A better understanding of the natural history and pathophysiology of congenital diseases has advanced the prenatal regenerative paradigm. By altering the natural course of disease through regrowth or redevelopment of malformed fetal organs, prenatal regenerative medicine has transformed maternal-fetal care. This review discusses the uses of regenerative medicine in the prenatal diagnosis and management of three congenital diseases: congenital diaphragmatic hernia, lower urinary tract obstruction, and spina bifida.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: current management strategies from antenatal diagnosis to long-term follow-up

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a developmental birth defect consisting of a diaphragmatic defect and abnormal lung development. CDH complicates 2.3-2.8 per 10,000 live births. Despite efforts to standardize clinical practice, management of CDH remains challenging. Frequent re-evaluation of clinical practices in CDH reveals that management of CDH is evolving from one of postnatal stabilization to prenatal optimization. Translational research reveals promising avenues for in utero therapeutic intervention, including fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion. These remain highly experimental and demand improved antenatal diagnostics. Timely diagnosis of CDH and identification of severely affected fetuses allow time for delivery planning or in utero therapeutics. Optimal perinatal care and surgical treatment strategies are highly debated. Improved CDH mortality rates have placed increased emphasis on identifying and monitoring the long-term sequelae of disease throughout childhood and into adulthood. We review the current management strategies for CDH, highlighting where progress has been made, and where future developments have the potential to revolutionize care in this vulnerable patient population.

Fetal tracheal occlusion for congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) remains one of the most elusive birth defects to treat. Despite greater knowledge of disease and advances in technology, approximately one-third of CDH children born today still die. Consequently, clinicians and researchers have struggled to find the optimal treatment strategies for CDH. Without further innovations in postnatal treatment, many have focused an antenatal approach to improve pulmonary function. Fetoscopic Endoluminal Tracheal Occlusion (FETO) for CDH has evolved to the bedside after decades of research. While still under clinical investigation, FETO remains a promising adjunct to the treatment of CDH.

Prediction tools in congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Because congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is characterized by a spectrum of severity, risk stratification is an essential component of care. In both the prenatal and postnatal periods, accurate prediction of outcomes may inform clinical decision-making, care planning, and resource allocation. This review examines the history and utility of the most well-established risk prediction tools currently available, and provides recommendations for their optimal use in the management of CDH patients.

Comparison of mediastinal shift angles obtained with ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in fetuses with isolated left sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Objectives: To compare ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the assessment of mediastinal shift angles (MSAs) in fetuses affected by isolated left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The use of MRI-MSA and US-MSA as prognostic factor for postnatal survival in fetal left CDH was also explored.Methods: This was an observational study of 29 fetuses with prenatally diagnosed isolated left CDH, assessed with both US and MRI examinations between January 2015 and December 2018. The US-MSA measurements performed within 2 weeks from the MRI assessment were considered for the analysis. The primary outcome was the postnatal survival rate.Results: No significant difference between US and MRI MSAs was detected (p = .419). Among the 29 cases, there were 21 alive infants, for an overall postnatal survival rate of 72.41%. After stratifying for postnatal survival, the best cutoffs with the highest discriminatory power in terms of sensibility and specificity were 42.1° for the US-MSA and 39.1° for the MRI-MSA. The performance of MRI-MSA in predicting postnatal survival was close to that of US-MSA in terms of sensitivity (62.5 versus 50.0%), specificity (80.9 versus 90.5%), positive predictive value (55.6 versus 66.7%), negative predictive value (85.0 versus 82.6%) and accuracy (75.9 versus 79.3%). There was no statistically significant difference between the two modalities (p > .05 for all).Conclusions: MRI and US can be interchangeably used for the assessment of MSA in prenatally diagnosed isolated left CDH. Moreover, MSA measured by both US and MRI was confirmed to be correlated with perinatal outcome in terms of survival.

Variability in antenatal prognostication of fetal diaphragmatic hernia across the North American Fetal Therapy Network (NAFTNet)

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate variability in antenatal sonographic prognostication of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) within the North American Fetal Therapy Network (NAFTNet).

METHODS

NAFTNet centre were invited to complete a questionnaire and participate in videoconference calls, during which participants were observed while measuring lung area by ultrasound using the anteroposterior (AP) method, longest method, and trace method. Each center identified 1-2 experienced fetal medicine specialist(s) or medical imaging specialists locally to participate in the study. Practices were compared among NAFTNet centre within and without the fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) consortium.

RESULTS

Nineteen participants from 9 FETO center and 30 participants from 17 non-FETO center completed the survey and 31 participants were interviewed and observed while measuring sonographic lung area. All Centres measured observed-to-expected lung-to-head ratio (o/e LHR) or LHR for CDH prognostication. Image selection criteria for lung area measurement were consistent, including an axial section of the chest with clear lung borders and a 4-chamber cardiac view. Lung area measurement methods varied across NAFTNet, with most centre using longest (4/9 FETO vs. 13/29 non-FETO) or trace (3/9 FETO vs. 11/29 non-FETO) method. Centres differed in expected reference ranges for o/e LHR determination and whether the lowest, highest or average o/e LHR was utilized.

CONCLUSION

Variability in antenatal sonographic prognostication of CDH was identified across NAFTNet, indicating a need for consensus-based standardization.

First steps in the development of a liquid biopsy in situ hybridization protocol to determine circular RNA biomarkers in rat biofluids

PURPOSE

Epigenetic factors are involved in the pathogenesis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are epigenetic regulators amenable to biomarker profiling. Here, we aimed to develop a liquid biopsy protocol to detect pathognomonic circRNA changes in biofluids.

METHODS

Our protocol is adapted from the existing BaseScope™ in situ hybridization technique. Rat biofluids were fixed in a gelatin-coated 96-well plate with formalin. Probes were designed to target circRNAs with significant fold change in nitrofen-induced CDH. FastRED fluorescence was assessed using a plate reader and confirmed with confocal microscopy. We tested maternal serum and amniotic fluid samples from control and nitrofen-treated rats.

RESULTS

We detected circRNAs in rat serum and amniotic fluid from control and CDH (nitrofen-treated) rats using fluorescent readout. CircRNA signal was observed in fixed biofluids as fluorescent punctate foci under confocal laser scanning microscopy. This was confirmed by comparison to BaseScope™ lung tissue sections. Signal was concentration dependent and DNase resistant.

CONCLUSION

We successfully adapted BaseScope™ to detect circRNAs in rat biofluids: serum and amniotic fluid. We detected signal from probes targeted to circRNAs that are dysregulated in rat CDH. This work establishes the preliminary feasibility of circRNA detection in prenatal diagnostics.

Dynamic discriminant model for predicting respiratory distress at birth based on mass volume ratio in fetuses with congenital lung malformation

OBJECTIVES

The congenital lung malformation volume ratio (CVR) is a prenatal ultrasound measurement that parameterizes congenital lung malformation (CLM) size. The aims of this study were to use serial measurements to create estimated growth curves of fetal CVR for asymptomatic and symptomatic neonates with CLM and to investigate whether a discriminant prognostic model based on these measurements could predict accurately which fetuses with CLM will require invasive respiratory support at delivery and should therefore be delivered at a tertiary-care facility.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of fetuses diagnosed prenatally with CLM at three tertiary-care children's hospitals between 2009 and 2016. Those with two or more sonographic measurements of CVR were included. Serial fetal CVR measurements were used to create estimated growth curves for neonates with and those without respiratory symptoms at delivery, defined as requiring invasive respiratory support for the first 24 h after delivery. A discriminant model based on serial CVR measurements was used to calculate the dynamic probability of the need for invasive respiratory support. The performance of this model overall and in preterm and term neonates was compared with those using maximum CVR thresholds of 1.0 and 1.6.

RESULTS

Of the 147 neonates meeting the inclusion criteria, 16 (10.9%) required postnatal invasive respiratory support. The estimated CVR growth curve models showed different growth trajectories for asymptomatic and symptomatic neonates, with significantly higher CVR in symptomatic neonates, and values peaking late in the second trimester at around 25 weeks' gestation in asymptomatic neonates. All prognostic methods had high accuracy for the prediction of the need for invasive respiratory support in term neonates, but the discriminant model had the best performance overall (area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve (AUC) = 0.88) and in the preterm population (AUC = 0.85).

CONCLUSIONS

The estimated CVR growth curves showed different growth patterns in asymptomatic and symptomatic neonates with CLM. The dynamic discriminant model performed well overall and particularly in neonates that were carried to term. Development of an externally validated clinical tool based on this analysis could be useful in determining the site of delivery for fetuses with CLM. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A multifactorial severity score for left congenital diaphragmatic hernia in a high-risk population using fetal magnetic resonance imaging

BACKGROUND

Adverse outcomes for infants born with left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) have been correlated with fetal imaging findings.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to corroborate these correlations in a high-risk cohort and describe a predictive mortality algorithm combining multiple imaging biomarkers for use in prenatal counseling.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed fetal MRI examinations at our institution from 2004 to 2016 demonstrating left-side CDH. MRI findings, hospital course and outcomes were recorded and analyzed using bivariate and multivariable analysis. We generated a receiver operating curve (ROC) to determine a cut-off relation for mortality. Finally, we created a predictive mortality calculator.

RESULTS

Of 41 fetuses included in this high-risk cohort, 41% survived. Per bivariate analysis, observed-to-expected total fetal lung volume (P=0.007), intrathoracic position of the stomach (P=0.049), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) requirement (P<0.001) were significantly associated with infant mortality. Youden J statistic optimized the ROC for mortality at 24% observed-to-expected total fetal lung volume (sensitivity 64%, specificity 82%, area under the curve 0.72). On multivariable analysis, observed-to-expected total fetal lung volume ± 24% was predictive of mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 95% confidence interval: 0.09 [0.02, 0.55]; P=0.008). We derived a novel mortality prediction calculator from this analysis.

CONCLUSION

In this high-risk cohort, decreased observed-to-expected total fetal lung volume and stomach herniation were significantly associated with mortality. The novel predictive mortality calculator utilizes information from fetal MR imaging and provides prognostic information for health care providers. Creation of similar predictive tools by other institutions, using their distinct populations, might prove useful in family counseling, especially where there are discordant imaging findings.

The assessment of cardiac function with tissue Doppler imaging in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the cardiac function of fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia by conventional echocardiography and spectral tissue Doppler imaging (s-TDI) and to evaluate the relationship between cardiac function and the severity of pulmonary hypoplasia. We also aimed to investigate the effect of diaphragmatic hernia side on fetal cardiac function.Methods: Fetal cardiac function were evaluated in 28 fetuses (20 with left-sided and 8 with right-sided) complicated with isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and 56 gestational age matched control in this single center prospective study. s-TDI measurements were obtained at the right atrioventricular valve annulus. The annular peak velocities and their ratios, the time periods of cardiac cycle and myocardial performance index were calculated.Results: In comparison to controls, significantly prolonged isovolumetric contraction time (ICT') and isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT') and, significantly shortened ejection time (ET') were observed in fetuses with CDH by s-TDI. Fetuses with CDH also had higher myocardial performance index (MPI') z-scores compared to controls. There were no significant differences in terms of s-TDI cardiac function parameters between fetuses with right- and left-sided CDH. In correlation analysis, a significant positive correlation was found between ET' value and o/e LHR.Conclusion: The signs of both systolic and diastolic altered function were observed in fetuses with CDH with s-TDI independent of the side of the hernia, and a significant positive correlation was observed between fetal cardiac systolic function and the severity of pulmonary hypoplasia.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia sacs: prenatal imaging and associated postnatal outcomes

BACKGROUND

The presence of a hernia sac in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) has been reported to be associated with higher lung volumes and better postnatal outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To compare prenatal imaging (ultrasound and MRI) prognostic measurements and postnatal outcomes of CDH with and without hernia sac.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed database searches from January 2008 to March 2017 for surgically proven cases of CDH with and without hernia sac. All children had a detailed ultrasound (US) examination and most had an MRI examination. We reviewed the medical records of children enrolled in our Pulmonary Hypoplasia Program.

RESULTS

Of 200 cases of unilateral CDH, 46 (23%) had hernia sacs. Cases of CDH with hernia sac had a higher mean lung-to-head ratio (LHR; 1.61 vs. 1.17; P<0.01), a higher mean observed/expected LHR (0.49 vs. 0.37; P<0.01), and on MRI a higher mean observed/expected total lung volume (0.53 vs. 0.41; P<0.01). Based on a smooth interface between lung and herniated contents, hernia sac or eventration was prospectively questioned by US and MRI in 45.7% and 38.6% of cases, respectively. Postnatally, hernia sac is associated with shorter median periods of admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (45.0 days vs. 61.5 days, P=0.03); mechanical ventilation (15.5 days vs. 23.5 days, P=0.04); extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (251 h vs. 434 h, P=0.04); decreased rates of patch repair (39.0% vs. 69.2%, P<0.01); and pulmonary hypertension (56.1% vs. 75.4%, P=0.03).

CONCLUSION

Hernia sac is associated with statistically higher prenatal prognostic measurements and improved postnatal outcomes. Recognition of a sharp interface between lung and herniated contents may allow for improved prenatal diagnosis; however, delivery and management should still occur at experienced quaternary neonatal centers.

Reproducibility of fetal lung-to-head ratio in left diaphragmatic hernia across the North American Fetal Therapy Network (NAFTNet)

OBJECTIVE

To determine the antenatal sonographic lung area measurement method in left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) with the highest interrater agreement among North American Fetal Therapy Network (NAFTNet) centers within and outside the fetoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) consortium and in comparison with a European "expert" reviewer (ER).

METHODS

Nineteen members from nine FETO consortium centers and 29 reviewers from 17 non-FETO centers reviewed ultrasound clips of the chest from 13 fetuses with isolated left CDH and were asked to select a static plane for lung area measurement using anteroposterior (AP), longest, and trace methods. Interrater agreement in lung area measurements was determined using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Bland-Altman analysis was used to evaluate mean difference (bias) between NAFTNet reviewers and ER.

RESULTS

Among FETO centers, agreement was highest using trace (ICC 0.94; 95% CI, 0.83-0.98), followed by longest (ICC 0.89; 95% CI, 0.75-0.97) and lowest for A-P (ICC 0.83; 95% CI, 0.67-0.94). Similar trends were noted in non-FETO centers. When compared with ER, bias was lowest for trace: 14 ± 38 mm² and 19 ± 36 mm² for FETO and non-FETO centers, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The trace method demonstrated the highest interrater agreement and lowest bias for lung area estimation in left CDH across NAFTNet.